DU Social Sciences Faculty members against abolition of D unit exams

The Faculty of Social Sciences of Dhaka University have expressed opposition to the move to abolish the undergraduate admission tests for D unit from the 2021-22 academic year.

Around 60 out of 108 professors from the faculty, comprising a majority, conveyed interest in going forth with the admission tests.

The professors voiced their intent after a virtual meeting among the senior members of the department, chaired by acting dean Professor Sadeka Halim, on Monday morning.

"There was pressure from the faculty members to call a meeting of the faculty. Senior teachers have expressed thoughtful opinions," said Professor Sadeka.

"The meeting unanimously decided to keep the admission test unit D to continue the uniqueness of the Faculty of Social Sciences. In the next academic council meeting, our faculty members will press forward with our stance,” added Professor Sadeka, also a former information commissioner of government.

Also read: DU to abolish D, E units to reduce exams

She said the teachers of the faculty were surprised when they heard the proposal of the vice-chancellor (VC) at the Deans' Committee meeting to abolish the undergraduate admission tests for D and E units held for enrolment in the university’s Social Science and Fine Arts Faculties, respectively, from the 2021-22 academic year. The teachers were even unaware that such a proposal was being considered.

The decision to abolish admission tests for D and E units was taken on Sunday, and it will be finalized at the academic council meeting of the university, which will be arranged soon.

According to the VC, the move is aimed to reduce the number of honours admission tests and stress of admission-seekers.